Puerto Princesa

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Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa, located on the island of Palawan in the Philippines, is a renowned tourist destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique points of interest. It offers a wide range of attractions for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in local culture and history. The city is committed to sustainable tourism, making it an ideal choice for responsible travelers.

One of the highlights of Puerto Princesa is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you can explore the Puerto Princesa Underground River, one of the longest subterranean rivers in the world. The river flows through a magnificent cave system adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing breathtaking limestone karst scenery.

Additionally, consider taking an island-hopping tour in Honda Bay during your visit. This allows you to visit multiple islands in a single day, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you're interested in water activities, relaxing on the beach, or exploring marine life, Puerto Princesa offers something for everyone, making it a popular choice for summer holidays.

Get to Know Puerto Princesa

Take a tour of this destination's highlights

Travel Tips for Puerto Princesa

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Puerto Princesa

A guide to Puerto Princesa's local transportation

Tricycles

Jeepneys

Boats and Island-Hopping Tours

Walking and Biking

Tourist Vans

Tricycles are a popular mode of transportation for short routes within the city. These motorbikes with three wheels and a covered sidecar can accommodate passengers. Tricycles are readily available and reasonably priced. In Puerto Princesa, the minimum fare for a tricycle ride is ₱12 for the first 2 kilometers, with an additional ₱2 for every extra kilometer.

Practical Tips for Puerto Princesa

Things to prepare and best way to visit

Which island is a must-visit while in Puerto Princesa?

Honda Bay, located a short distance from Puerto Princesa, is renowned for its pristine seas and scenic islets. Notable islands to explore in Honda Bay include Snake Island, Pandan Island, Starfish Island, and Luli Island. These islands offer opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on immaculate beaches.

Where is the best area in Puerto Princesa to enjoy the natural wonders?

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, home to the Underground River, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area showcases a high level of biodiversity and is characterized by limestone karst formations, lush forests, and a wide range of fauna. It is the ideal area in Puerto Princesa to appreciate natural wonders.

Is English widely spoken in Puerto Princesa?

In tourist destinations like Puerto Princesa, you will find that many locals working in the hospitality and tourism industry, such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, are fluent in English. This makes it relatively easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate and navigate around Puerto Princesa. Additionally, road signs, menus, and other essential tourist information are often available in English.

What are the recommended attractions to visit in Puerto Princesa?

One recommended attraction to visit in Puerto Princesa is the Puerto Princesa Underground River. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, the Underground River is highly recommended. Embark on a boat journey through the remarkable limestone cave system of the subterranean river.

What is a must-try local dish in Puerto Princesa?

Being part of Palawan, Puerto Princesa offers a variety of delicious local dishes that highlight the region's fresh seafood and unique flavors. One must-try local dish is the famous "Tamilok." Tamilok is a native food from Palawan that some people might consider adventurous. These woodworms live in dead mangrove wood and are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, calamansi (Philippine lime), and spices.

Despite its appearance, many locals and visitors find Tamilok to have a taste similar to oysters or ceviche. If you're feeling adventurous, trying Tamilok is a unique culinary experience in Puerto Princesa.